M&S to open stores at 12 former Homebase sites
Marks & Spencer is set to accelerate its store opening programme with the development of 12 food stores at former Homebase units.
The openings will form part of the retailer’s wider store rotation and renewal programme, which aims to create 420 bigger food stores and a more productive group of 180 full line stores. Half of the M&S estate is expected to be in the new format by 2027/28.
The first of the new stores are set to open in Abingdon, Cannock, Farnham, Godalming, and Northampton between late 2025 and summer 2026.
Features of the renewed M&S stores include larger car parks, new bakeries, wider aisles, and expanded frozen sections. The stores will also look to be more energy efficient, utilising LED lighting and natural refrigerant fridges and freezers.
M&S CEO Stuart Machin said: “Investing in new and renewed stores is one of our key transformation priorities. Securing these highly desirable sites in priority locations will accelerate this strategy, drive further growth in our M&S food business and most importantly give our customers the best possible M&S shopping experience.”
Homebase’s store estate became available after the DIY retailer fell into administration last year. Other retailers which have taken on former Homebase stores include The Range, Sainsbury’s, Ikea, and Wickes.